Archetypal Families
THE NINE MAJOR ARCHETYPAL FAMILIES
Here is a comprehensive list of archetypes that fall within nine categories. You can start by
reviewing the list to see if any resonate with you. Archetypes are symbolic (not literal), so for
instance, the Athlete does not necessarily mean your accomplishments in sports. It represents
the qualities of mental toughness and inner stamina, with the tenacity to overcome obstacles.
The Knight shows bravery, loyalty and respect for others, and the ability to take selfless action
for the greater good. You can find a detailed description of each of the archetypes listed in
the Gallery of Archetypes on Myss.com or in the Caroline Myss book, “Sacred Contracts.”
Child
Victim
Prostitute
Saboteur
HEALER FAMILY
Healer
Wounded Healer
Rescuer
Servant
Caretaker
Companion
Shadow Healer: Charlatan, Fraud
THE FEMININE FAMILY
Goddess
Mother
Princess
Damsel
Virgin
MASCULINE FAMILY
King
Father
Knight
Warrior
Lover
Fool
DIVINE FAMILY
Nun/Monk
Celibate
Shaman
Medicine Man/Woman
Priest/Priestess
Disciple and Guru
Martyr
Samaritan
Missionary
WISDOM FAMILY
Sage/Oracle/Crone
Seeker/Wanderer
Hermit
Alchemist
Storyteller
Judge/Critic
Mystic
Teacher/Mentor/Student
Philosopher
Mediator
CREATIVE FAMILY
Artist
Scribe
Pioneer/Explorer
Statesman/woman
Strategist
Networker/Gossip
Entrepreneur
Philanthropist
Athlete/Olympian
Visionary/Prophet
ACTION FAMILY
Hero/Heroine
Coward/Bully
Mercenary
Gambler/Risk Taker
Rebel/Revolutionary
Detective/Spy
Midas/Miser
Slave/Liberator
WILD CARD FAMILY
Addict
Holy Fool
Trickster
Seductress
Provocateur
Spellcaster
Magician
Hedonist
Vampire
Shapeshifter
Femme Fatale
Thief
Pirate
Clown